PATIENT RESOURCES & FAQS

Comprehensive Answers & Guidance for Your Care

Find clear answers to common questions regarding orthotic and prosthetic treatments, medical aid authorizations, SAOPA billing tariffs, and device maintenance.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Common Patient & Medical Scheme Enquiries

What is an orthosis?

An orthosis is a custom or pre-fabricated medical device worn externally to support, align, correct deformities, prevent injury, or improve the biomechanical function of moveable parts of the body. Examples include Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs), knee braces, custom foot orthotics, and spinal braces (TLSOs).

What is a prosthesis?

A prosthesis is an externally applied artificial limb or device custom-engineered to restore the function, biomechanics, and aesthetic appearance of a missing upper or lower limb following amputation or congenital limb differences.

Do I need a doctor's referral letter?

Yes. Because Orthotists and Prosthetists are medical specialists, a formal referral letter from a qualified medical practitioner (General Practitioner, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Neurologist, Paediatrician, or Physiotherapist) is required for clinical treatment and to facilitate pre-authorisation and claim reimbursement with South African medical aid schemes.

How do medical aid claims and SAOPA tariff rates work?

Our practice bills strictly according to the South African Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (SAOPA) tariff guidelines. We assist patients by formulating detailed clinical motivations and submitting pre-authorisation requests directly to major medical schemes (such as Discovery Health, GEMS, Bonitas, Momentum, and Medshield), as well as Compensation Fund (COID/WCA) and Road Accident Fund (RAF) claims.

What should I bring to my initial clinical appointment?

Please bring your doctor's referral letter, your valid South African ID, your medical aid card, any relevant diagnostic reports (X-rays, MRI scans, or hospital discharge papers), your current footwear, and any existing orthotic or prosthetic devices you currently use.

How long will my clinical appointment take?

Initial consultations and biomechanical assessments typically take between 45 to 60 minutes. Device fitting, gait analysis alignment, and adjustment sessions usually range from 30 to 60 minutes depending on the complexity of the device.

Do you provide repairs, refitting, and ongoing maintenance?

Yes. We offer complete aftercare, structural maintenance, socket adjustments, strap replacements, and routine alignment tuning for all custom orthoses and prosthetic limbs at both our Mdantsane and King William's Town practices.

How often should my orthosis or prosthesis be reviewed?

We recommend a routine review every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if you experience weight fluctuation, residual limb volume changes, skin irritation, pain, or mechanical wear and tear on the device. Paediatric patients require more frequent reviews to accommodate natural growth milestones.

Can I contact the practice directly through WhatsApp?

Yes. You can message our clinical administration team directly via our official WhatsApp links on this site for quick appointment enquiries, location directions, or pre-assessment questions.

PATIENT EDUCATION

Educational Articles & Clinical Guides

Guide to Mobility Assistive Devices - Gebe O&P

Understanding Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs)

A comprehensive guide to custom AFO braces, foot drop management, stroke rehabilitation, and gait correction.

Read article →
First Prosthetic Consultation Journey - Gebe O&P

Preparing for Your First Prosthetic Consultation

What lower and upper limb amputees can expect during residual limb assessment, casting, and pre-authorisation.

Read article →
Orthotic Device Care & Skin Inspection Guide - Gebe O&P

Orthotic Device Care & Skin Inspection Guide

Essential advice on cleaning your device, monitoring skin breakdown, break-in protocols, and long-term maintenance.

Read article →

Have a specific question about medical aid coverage or your device?

Contact Our Clinical Team